News

Ravu absent as case adjourned

Posted by Media Team 08 January 2025

Former Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Kalaveti Ravu, was not present in the Suva Magistrates Court yesterday, when the matter was called to check on a Pre-Trial Conference.

Mr Cakau appeared for both Mr Tekata Toaisi and Mr Ravu on instructions of Ms Rokoika. Mr Cakau had informed the Court that Ravu was in Nadi attending to official work commitments.

FICAC State Counsel, Lavenia Ravuikadavu, informed the Court that FICAC was not informed in advance regarding Ravu’s absence this morning.

However, Prosecution requested a short mention date of the matter to finalise PTC since Mr Cakau has just responded to PTC yesterday morning and also to allow Mr Ravu to appear. Prosecution allowed Mr Ravu’s presence to be excused yesterday however if he does not appear on the mention date, Prosecution will seek a bench warrant.

It is alleged that between 25th July 2023 and 31 August 2023, Mr Ravu interfered in the lawful process of a Ministry of Forestry investigation into the illegal trade of banned species of beche-de-mer.

It is alleged that Mr Toaisi, while employed with the Ministry, aided and abetted the former Minister in committing the offence of abuse of office.

Resident Magistrate Jeremaia Savou has adjourned the case for mention on January 21, 2025 and the hearing is fixed from the 3rd to the 7th of February 2025.